The Korea Youth Counseling and Welfare Institute said 3,500 students received its counseling services in 2012, of which 25.8 percent involved depression, anxiety, anger and suicidal tendencies and other mental problems.

Depression, in particular, has become the major concern for the students, jumping to 12.6 percent from 4.3 percent in 2008.

High school and college students showed the highest percentage of mental health problems with 32.7 percent and 33.2 percent, respectively.

Meanwhile, the majority of primary students sought counseling for family problems and middle school students for their relationships with peers with 24.8 percent and 28.7 percent, respectively, according to the KYCWI.

The report also showed that counseling services for internet addiction have jumped among students to 7.7 percent from 0.5 percent four years ago.